“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:2-3

I bet Daddy’s mansion is going to be huge! I know he’ll be there watching westerns, fixing a feast of BBQ and his famous baked beans and making the angels laugh with his thousands of stories when I get there. I can see his face, bright and warm with a toothy smile, walking around in perfect health and ready to show me around.

…words cannot really express how I feel about my grandfather, Ivory Artis, Sr. Trust me, over the last few days, I’ve tried to find them, but there are none grand or wonderful enough to describe his smile, his voice, his warm eyes or his huge heart.

Everyone who knows me, knows that I called him Daddy. Since the day that I was born, he has been there for me. I lived in his home and was nurtured under his large protective wings. But he was never selfish with his love. There are so many people who share the same bond of knowing a man who always wanted the best for everyone around him.

For 37 years, Daddy was there to be everything for me. He loved me unconditionally and taught me how to be a good person, scolded me when I was a bad person, and never passed judgement. He wiped my tears, chased away my fears, made me feel like a giant and a princess. I was blessed to have had him in my life, and I am not alone.

On October 21st, we will commit Rev. Ivory Artis, Sr. back to the earth during his homegoing celebration. If you have known him or have known the Artis Family, I humbly extend the invitation to celebrate his life with us.

Yes, I am so very sad to see my father leave this Earth, but I rejoice in knowing that Heaven truly has a special man added to their ranks.

No more pain. No more worry. No more earthly concerns. Let us celebrate a man who exemplified what is was to be a kind, generous, loving servant of God and an amazing man.

Homegoing Celebration
Rev. Ivory Artis, Sr.
May 30, 1935 – October 11, 2017

Wake:
N. J. Funeral Home
Friday, October 20, 2017
4:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m.
12 S Parkway W, Memphis, TN 38109

Homegoing Celebration:
Summerfield Baptist Church
Saturday, October 21, 2017
10:00 a.m.
1383 Boxwood St, Memphis, TN 38108

Internment:
Calvary Cemetery & Mausoleum (immediately following)
1663 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38106

Repass:
Summerfield Baptist Church
Saturday, October 21, 2017
1383 Boxwood St, Memphis, TN 38108